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Old Fashioned Meatloaf

Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe for Classic Comfort

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This timeless American comfort food features a moist and tender blend of lean ground beef, panko breadcrumbs soaked in milk, and a savory base of sautéed aromatics. Perfectly glazed with a tangy, slightly sweet ketchup topping, this meatloaf offers a classic diner-style experience that is perfect for any family gathering. Its gentle preparation ensures a soft, uniform texture that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs 85/15 ground beef
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup whole milk
1 medium onion, finely diced and sautéed
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs, whisked
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a pan until translucent; set aside to cool slightly.
Combine the milk and breadcrumbs in a small bowl and let soak for 5 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
Add the ground beef, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, and the breadcrumb panade to the bowl.
Mix all ingredients together gently using your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it onto a lined baking sheet.
In a small bowl, whisk the ketchup and brown sugar together to create the glaze.
Brush the glaze generously over the top of the loaf.
Bake for 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

Notes

Always sauté the onions and garlic first to remove the raw bite and enhance the depth of flavor. Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the texture tender rather than dense. If you prefer a more caramelized glaze, place the meatloaf under the broiler for 1-2 minutes during the last stage of cooking.

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